Living with a chronic pain condition like Fibromyalgia is no easy task. Like most chronic pain conditions, Fibromyalgia is often an "invisible illness", which means from those on the outside, those who have it appear "normal". This makes it extremely difficult to be in society - whether that is performing activities of daily living, having a social life, or holding a job. There is usually a stigma that comes with invisible illnesses such as Fibromyalgia. 

Not only do people need to contend with the stigma of Fibromyalgia, they also have to deal with a loss of independence, liberty and much more. Lack of treatments, working treatments being taken away, disbelief from friends’ family and health professionals means that this condition is challenging. Luckily, science is working hard to find a cure and the best treatment for Fibromyalgia. Read on to learn a little more about what this chronic pain condition is, the symptoms, causes and what an ideal treatment plan looks like.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a painful disorder characterized by widespread muscle and joint pain. According to Fibromyalgia Canada, this condition affects an estimated 2 million Canadians and 5 million Americans. Diagnosing Fibromyalgia can be tricky, but researchers have better tests and assessments than 5 or 10 years ago so these numbers are fairly accurate.

Although Fibromyalgia may seem like a fairly new term for most people, there have been descriptions of this condition going back as far as 1816 when Dr. William Balfur, a surgeon at the University of Edinburgh first recorded the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.

Who’s at Risk?

Women between 25 and 60 have the highest chances of developing fibromyalgia. Doctor’s aren’t sure why, but women are 10 times more likely to have it than men. Some researchers believe genetics may play a role, but we don’t know what specific genes it could be.

Symptoms

There are several common symptoms of fibromyalgia, including:

• Fatigue

• Sleep disturbances

• Headaches

• Cognitive difficulties

Other symptoms include numbness, tingling, and stiffness. People with fibromyalgia often report feeling depressed and anxious as well. These symptoms usually last all day, with little to no reprieve.

Causes

The causes of Fibromyalgia are relatively unknown, but Researchers believe it most likely involves a variety of factors working together. These may include:

• Genetics. Because fibromyalgia tends to run in families, there may be certain genetic mutations that may make you more susceptible to developing the disorder.

• Infections. Some illnesses appear to trigger or aggravate fibromyalgia.

• Physical or emotional trauma. Fibromyalgia can sometimes be triggered by a physical trauma, such as a car accident. Psychological stress may also trigger the condition.

• An imbalance between the nervous system and the immune system. This results in inflammation and pain.
  

Treatments

There are several different treatment options available for fibromyalgia. These range from medications to alternative therapies. A well-designed treatment plan for Fibromyalgia will likely involve a combination of recommendations and treatments. A GP, a chronic pain specialist or Physiotherapist, Massage therapist and a Clinical Counselor can all help with a holistic plan to help you function at your best. Here are some bullet points on what the best Fibromyalgia treatment might look like (according to recent research):

EXERCISE

• Start slow & go slow

• Progress to moderate intensity

• 30-60 minutes in duration

• Mix of aerobic and strengthening

• Supervised programs perform better

• 4 times per week (once progressed)

SLEEP HYGIENE

• Limit screen time

• Keep the same sleep/wake cycle daily

• Meditation has been proven to help

• Ensure a dark & relaxed environment

• Keep a worry list beside your bed

• Stick to a bedtime routine

NUTRITION

• Whole foods where possible

• Avoid stimulating foods & drinks

• Reduce processed foods

• Low GI for stable BSLs

• Identify food intolerances

• Treat yourself in moderation

EDUCATION & LIFESTYLE INTERVENTIONS

• Trigger identification & prevention

• Pacing

• Setback management

• The stress response

• Goal setting & gradual exposure

• Relaxation therapies

PAIN TREATMENT

• Pain & neuroscience education

• Exercise & movement

• Stress management

• Physiotherapy & Massage

• Medication (if required)

• Supportive team

PSYCHOLOGY & BEHAVIOURAL INTERVENTIONS

• Coping skills

• Stress management

• Trauma support

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

• ACT

• Social & Community connections

If you or a loved one are dealing with a chronic pain condition like Fibromyalgia, just know that there are many support groups, Physicians and Rehab Professionals who can help! Chipperfield Mobile Physiotherapy has a team of Physiotherapists, Acupuncturists, and Clinical Counsellors who can help you address your pain and find treatment solutions - plus we come to you so you don’t have to worry about leaving your home! We serve clients all throughout British Columbia with our Virtual sessions, and In-Home appointments are available in Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond and Surrey.

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